Several countries, realizing that they both need and want new fresh blood into their countries, have opened up residency and citizenship laws. This is especially true as native populations grow older and need younger workers. (The no-nothings in the White House Could learn a few lessons here, don’t you think?)
As the result of a lawsuit brought in Canada, our neighbor to the north now has stated that ancestry can go back several generations to qualify for Canadian citizenship. U.S. citizens now in several states, notably those along the northern border have set off a scramble looking for Canadian ancestors for personal and political reasons.
Many of those looking for Canadian ancestors are people from LGBT+ communities, fearful of the increasingly hateful rhetoric they hear. This is especially true of trans persons who are targeted by such speech. Others are just tired of the total inaction of Congress refusing to assert its Constitutional authority, not to mention the fact that we are already losing a generation of scientists, some to Canada.
Prayer for the Day
In this time when many feel fear, we need your presence
For you embrace us, reminding us that we are not alone;
In this time of anger and wrath, we need to feel your peace,
And respond to your call to be witnesses of reconciliation.
Help us to commit ourselves to healing the divisions around us,
And share your peace as faithful witnesses to your Gospel.
In the name of the One who is our example,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
This is my great-grandfather's death certificate here. He died in Springfield, Massachusetts, in the 1960s. So that's my actual Canadian ancestor right there.
Sam, a trans farmer and mariner, leaving for Canada
Because people have a right to be who they are. And if they can't do it in their home country, well, come to Canada. We'll welcome you.
Doug Cochrane, genealogist, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
May God grant me to speak with judgment,
And to have thoughts worthy of what I have received;
For God is the guide even of wisdom and the corrector of the wise.
For both we and our words are in God’s hand,
As are all understanding and skill in crafts.
Wisdom of Solomon 7: 15-16